The following are highlights from what was a great, interactive discussion.

Venture Capital Investment is Critical to Economic Growth

Startups and innovative companies drive a significant portion of activity in the economy and are responsible for significant job and output growth. Venture capital is the fuel that drives startups. Startups need capital to succeed, ergo, venture capital investment needs to be active and sustainable in order to create a thriving economy.

Pitches are Important, BUT…

They are necessary but not sufficient. In other words, having a great pitch can help get you to the next stage in the due diligence process, but it won’t land you an investment (by itself). However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hone your message. Keep these points in mind:

Be clear – If your audience doesn’t understand you or your concept, you won’t get anywhere.

Get to the point – Be concise in your message. Get to the point quickly without providing a ton of unnecessary background. It just becomes noise.

Build Your Team

Experience and success goes a long, long way. Investors love to see a team that has a track record of success. Have they successfully started companies before? Do they have experience in this industry? Having a loaded team is one of the most important criteria many investors look at in early stage companies. If you don’t have team with relevant track records and industry experience, assemble one.

Validate Your Commercial Prospects

Whatever you can do to validate the commercialization prospects for your product or service, do it and show it. Revenue, purchase orders or other indications of market acceptance and improving traction can go a long way towards proving your concept to prospective investors.

Know Your Targets

When you are targeting potential investors, do your homework. Do they invest in your industry or market? Does the size of the investment you’re seeking fit with the fund’s typical investment level? Don’t waste time and energy targeting funds that aren’t a fit for your company.

Leverage Accelerator Programs

Participation in recognized accelerator programs such as Capital Innovators, SixThirty and BioGenerator provides validation of your company and informs prospective investors that you have already been through a vetting process and that these programs see potential in you.

RubinBrown has a dedicated Life Sciences and Technology Services Group specializing in advising startup and early stage companies, performing valuations and consulting on IP value, management and strategy.

Any federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments): (i) is intended for your use only; (ii) is based on the accuracy and completeness of the facts you have provided us; and (iii) may not be relied upon to avoid penalties.